Hey there, Subaru Crosstrek enthusiasts! Having trouble getting your phone connected to your 2017 Crosstrek's Bluetooth system? Don't worry, you're not alone. Bluetooth connectivity can sometimes be a bit finicky, but with this guide, you'll be streaming your favorite tunes and making hands-free calls in no time. Let's dive into the world of Subaru Bluetooth and get you connected!

Understanding the Subaru Crosstrek Bluetooth System

Before we jump into the pairing process, let's get a quick overview of the Bluetooth system in your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek. This system allows you to wirelessly connect your smartphone to your car's infotainment system. Once connected, you can make and receive calls, stream music, access contacts, and even use some of your phone's apps through the car's touchscreen display. It's a pretty handy feature that enhances both safety and convenience while you're on the road.

Key Features of the Bluetooth System:

• Hands-Free Calling: Make and receive calls without taking your hands off the wheel.
• Audio Streaming: Listen to your favorite music, podcasts, and audiobooks from your phone.
• Contact Access: Sync your phone's contacts to the car's system for easy dialing.
• Voice Control: Use voice commands to make calls, play music, and more.
• App Integration: Access certain apps from your phone through the car's display (depending on compatibility).

Understanding these features will help you appreciate the full potential of your Crosstrek's Bluetooth system. Now, let's move on to the pairing process.

Step-by-Step Guide to Pairing Your Phone

Alright, let's get down to business. Here's a detailed, step-by-step guide to pairing your phone with your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek's Bluetooth system:

Step 1: Prepare Your Phone and Car

First things first, make sure your phone's Bluetooth is turned on. You can usually find this in your phone's settings menu under "Bluetooth" or "Connections." On your Crosstrek, turn on the ignition. You don't need to start the engine, just turn the key to the "ON" position or press the start button once.

Step 2: Access the Bluetooth Menu on Your Crosstrek

On your car's touchscreen display, look for the "Settings" or "Menu" button. The exact wording may vary slightly depending on your specific model and trim level. Once you've found it, tap on it. Then, look for the "Bluetooth" option in the settings menu and tap on that.

Step 3: Initiate Pairing Mode

In the Bluetooth menu, you should see an option like "Add Device," "Pair New Device," or something similar. Select this option to put your Crosstrek into pairing mode. The system will now be discoverable by your phone.

Step 4: Select Your Crosstrek on Your Phone

On your phone, you should see a list of available Bluetooth devices. Look for your Subaru Crosstrek in the list. It might be listed as "Subaru BT," "Crosstrek," or something similar. Tap on it to select it.

Step 5: Confirm the Passkey

Both your car's display and your phone will likely show a passkey or PIN code. Make sure the code is the same on both devices. If it is, confirm the pairing on both your phone and your car. You might need to tap "Pair" or "OK" on your phone and press a similar confirmation button on your car's touchscreen.

Step 6: Grant Permissions

Your phone might ask you to grant the Crosstrek permission to access your contacts, call history, and other data. It's generally a good idea to allow these permissions if you want to use the full range of Bluetooth features. Don't worry; Subaru isn't going to steal your data. Tap "Allow" or "Grant Access" on your phone.

Step 7: Test the Connection

Once the pairing is complete, test the connection to make sure everything is working properly. Try making a call using the car's system or play some music from your phone. If everything sounds good, you're all set!

Troubleshooting Tips:

• Make sure Bluetooth is enabled on your phone: This might seem obvious, but it's easy to overlook. Double-check that Bluetooth is turned on in your phone's settings.
• Restart your phone: Sometimes, a simple restart can fix Bluetooth connectivity issues.
• Clear the Bluetooth cache on your phone: This can help resolve conflicts with previously paired devices. The process for clearing the cache varies depending on your phone's operating system.
• Delete previous pairings: If you've paired your phone with the Crosstrek before, try deleting the old pairing from both your phone and your car and then re-pair them.
• Update your phone's software: Make sure your phone is running the latest version of its operating system. Software updates often include Bluetooth improvements.

Common Issues and How to Resolve Them

Even with the best instructions, you might still run into some snags. Here are a few common Bluetooth issues and how to tackle them:

Issue 1: Phone Won't Connect

• Solution: First, ensure that Bluetooth is enabled on both your phone and your Subaru Crosstrek. Next, try deleting the existing pairing from both devices and re-pairing them. Also, make sure no other devices are interfering with the Bluetooth connection. Sometimes, having multiple Bluetooth devices active nearby can cause conflicts. Restarting your phone can also help refresh the Bluetooth connection.

Issue 2: Poor Audio Quality

• Solution: Poor audio quality can be due to several factors. Check the volume levels on both your phone and your car's audio system. Ensure that the audio source on your car is set to Bluetooth. If the issue persists, try moving your phone closer to the car's infotainment system, as physical obstructions can sometimes weaken the Bluetooth signal. Additionally, check for any software updates for your phone or car, as these updates often include improvements to Bluetooth performance.

Issue 3: Dropped Connections

• Solution: Dropped Bluetooth connections can be frustrating. Start by ensuring that your phone's battery is not low, as low battery can sometimes affect Bluetooth performance. Check for any interference from other electronic devices nearby, such as Wi-Fi routers or microwaves. Try resetting your car's infotainment system by turning the car off and then back on. If the problem continues, consider updating your phone's operating system or contacting your Subaru dealer for further assistance.

Issue 4: Contacts Not Syncing

• Solution: If your contacts are not syncing properly, make sure you've granted the necessary permissions on your phone for the car to access your contacts. Go to your phone's Bluetooth settings, find your Subaru Crosstrek in the list of paired devices, and ensure that contact sharing is enabled. You might also need to manually sync your contacts from your phone to the car's system. Refer to your car's owner's manual for specific instructions on how to do this.

Tips for Maintaining a Stable Bluetooth Connection

To keep your Bluetooth connection running smoothly, here are a few tips to keep in mind:

• Keep Your Phone's Software Updated: Regularly update your phone's operating system to ensure you have the latest Bluetooth drivers and bug fixes.
• Avoid Interference: Keep your phone away from other electronic devices that could interfere with the Bluetooth signal, such as microwaves or Wi-Fi routers.
• Manage Paired Devices: Periodically review the list of paired devices on both your phone and your car and remove any devices that you no longer use.
• Restart Regularly: Restarting your phone and your car's infotainment system occasionally can help clear out any temporary glitches and keep the Bluetooth connection stable.
• Check for Car Software Updates: Just like your phone, your car's infotainment system may also receive software updates. Check with your Subaru dealer to see if there are any updates available for your car.

Conclusion

Pairing your phone with your 2017 Subaru Crosstrek's Bluetooth system should now be a breeze! By following these steps and troubleshooting tips, you'll be enjoying hands-free calling and wireless audio streaming in no time. Remember to keep your devices updated and manage your Bluetooth connections for a seamless experience. Happy driving, and stay connected!